1. Exposition of Holy Devnimori Relics in Sri Lanka (2026)

The exposition of the sacred Devnimori Relics of Lord Buddha at the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo (February 4–11, 2026) represents a landmark event in India-Sri Lanka relations, utilizing \'Buddhist Diplomacy\' to strengthen regional ties. • Historical Provenance: The relics originate from the Devnimori archaeological site (Aravalli district, Gujarat), discovered in 1957. The site features a stupa that serves as a testament to the flourishing of Buddhism in Western India during the early centuries of the Common Era. • Archaeological Significance: The relics were found within a green schist casket inscribed in Brahmi script and Sanskrit, specifically bearing the phrase \'dashabala sharira nilay\' (the abode of the Buddha’s bodily relic). • Diplomatic Outreach: Led by the Governor of Gujarat, the delegation utilizes \'Soft Power\' to reinforce the \'Neighborhood First\' policy, building on the vision articulated during the Prime Minister’s 2025 visit to Sri Lanka. • Preservation and Protocol: The relics are housed in a specialized desiccator (air-tight glass) and transported via a special Indian Air Force aircraft with full state honors, reflecting their status as \'State Guests.\' • Cultural Continuity: This event follows previous successful expositions in Thailand, Mongolia, and Vietnam, positioning India as the \'Vishwa Guru\' and the primary custodian of Buddhist heritage. • Bilateral Resonance: By choosing the Gangaramaya Temple, a center for the 19th-century Buddhist revival in Sri Lanka, India aligns its diplomatic goals with the cultural and religious identity of the Sri Lankan people. Key Definitions & Historical Context • Relic (Sharira): In the Buddhist tradition, these are physical remains (ashes, bone fragments, or beads) of the Buddha or high-ranking monks, considered objects of supreme veneration. • Green Schist: A type of metamorphic rock used for the Devnimori casket; its durability has preserved the Brahmi inscriptions for centuries. • Brahmi Script: The ancestor of most modern Indian and Southeast Asian scripts, used extensively by Emperor Ashoka to spread Dhamma. Constitutional & Legal Framework • Article 51 (A)(f): The Indian Constitution mandates that every citizen value and preserve the rich heritage of the country’s composite culture. • Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972: Governs the movement and protection of such relics. Since these are national treasures, their temporary export for exposition requires high-level clearances from the Ministry of Culture and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).• Soft Power Strategy: While not a \'legal\' provision, it aligns with Article 51 (Directive Principles), which promotes international peace and security through cultural exchange. Strategic Importance for India-Sri Lanka Ties

Conclusion The Devnimori Relics exposition is more than a religious event; it is a sophisticated tool of Cultural Diplomacy. By bridging the gap between Gujarat’s archaeological wealth and Sri Lanka’s spiritual landscape, India reinforces its role as a stabilizing, benevolent power in South Asia. This \'Dhamma-centric\' engagement provides a non-controversial, deeply emotive platform to enhance bilateral trust and regional harmony. UPSC Relevance • GS Paper I: Indian Culture (Buddhist sites, architecture, and literature); Ancient History (Brahmi script, Western Indian Buddhist circuits). • GS Paper II: International Relations (India-Sri Lanka bilateral relations, Soft Power, Neighborhood First Policy). • Prelims: Locations of Buddhist sites (Devnimori, Shamlaji), Ashokan scripts, and recent cultural summits.